Today, there is an urgent demand for engineers across engineering disciplines. Skilled, driven engineering professionals are needed all over the world to envision, implement and improve the systems and technologies that millions of people rely on every single day.
From establishing yourself as a technical industry thought leader to increasing your chances for a lifelong, lucrative career, here are just a few of the data-backed reasons to break into the engineering field.
What to Know About the Demand for Engineers Today
Engineers are responsible for designing and refining the countless structures, systems and technologies that actively improve the lives of countless people all over the world. As technology continues to rapidly advance and as societal needs transform, the demand for engineers also grows.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that STEM jobs will increase by 10 percent by 2031. Engineering jobs specifically are expected to increase by about 4 percent (about as fast as the national average for all occupations), which translates to over 91,000 new engineering jobs emerging in that same time period.
Read more about the specifics of the engineering job outlook here.
4 Reasons to Break Into an Engineering Career
There are many reasons that you might want to jumpstart your engineering career; here are four that we consider most noteworthy:
1. Establish yourself as a driven, competitive technology leader.
If you are interested in technology, then breaking into the field of engineering is not only a practical, but a strategic option for you. Engineers exist as some of the most transformative technology professionals across industries today, and by choosing the engineering field, you will have the opportunity to join a community of other leading experts who are passionate about technological progress.
2. Make a difference by developing real-world solutions to pressing challenges.
Ultimately, engineers are agents of positive change. Engineers work to make a difference in disciplines ranging from infrastructure to surgery/healthcare, from sustainability to construction, and beyond. By choosing a specialized engineering career, you will have the opportunity to develop real-world solutions to incredibly complex challenges in whatever area of engineering you are most passionate about.
3. Experience the benefits of a lucrative career.
Engineers, like most STEM professionals, very often experience highly lucrative careers during their lifetime. Engineers make an average of about $100,000 per year in the United States, and depending on which branch of engineering you choose to pursue, you can expect to earn an even higher salary.
Pro Tip: Engineering professionals who hold a master’s degree in engineering make thousands more a year than those who only hold a bachelor’s degree. Read our article on more reasons to obtain a master’s degree in engineering.
4. Benefit from countless opportunities for professional growth.
The engineering industry is always advancing and evolving. As such, engineering professionals experience countless opportunities to increase competitive skill sets, master new technologies and nurture a dedication to lifelong learning. By entering the field of engineering, you too will have invaluable opportunities for professional development and growth.
Meet the Demand for Engineers with a Master’s Degree in Engineering from Vanderbilt University
At Vanderbilt University School of Engineering, we offer a variety of graduate engineering programs for ambitious, mission-focused professionals who are seeking to make a positive impact on the world. We offer diverse strategic research areas, employ experts with industry experience and foster a community of inclusivity.
Are you ready to take the next step in your engineering career? We invite you to request more information to learn more about our diverse graduate program offerings.
You can also explore the different types of engineering here or start your application today!
Explore the Different Types of Engineering Resource.
